County honors retiring employee, hands out walking-program prizes and recognizes air-show organizers

The Yellowstone County Board of County Commissioners on Oct. 10 used part of its meeting to recognize staff and community contributions, presenting a retirement plaque, distributing wellness‑program prizes and thanking organizers of a major community event.

Chair introduced Jackie to receive a plaque marking 30 years of county service. Marcy, who the chair invited forward, told Jackie, "Just wanna say thank you, Jackie, for all your time and service, all your knowledge, and always smiling." Jackie confirmed her last day will be the 16th and thanked colleagues for the opportunity to work in the motor vehicle office.

County staff also reported results of the county’s employee walking challenge. "We challenged the employees to walk 300 miles in 3 months," the program lead said, reporting that 62% of participants completed the program and that employees logged about 27,036 miles in total. The program recognized several staff winners and thanked sponsors including Intermountain Health/St. V's, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana, Marsh McLennan Agency (formerly Payne West), Metropark and Lehi Group.

Mike Black of County Public Works introduced a high‑school senior, Jamie Jenkins from Harlowton, who spent the day job‑shadowing utility and construction careers; commissioners welcomed the student and encouraged her interest in construction.

Commissioner Jones read a certificate recognizing Jake Penwell and Matt McDonald for their work promoting the Yellowstone International Air Show, thanking them for their "significant contribution to the economic impact on Yellowstone County." Jake accepted the recognition and commissioners praised the broad effort of airport staff, law enforcement and volunteers that supported the event.

The meeting proceeded to routine consent items and adjourned after public comments.